Blackbutt Timber as a Primary Decking Material

Blackbutt is one of the most frequent hardwood species commercially accessible in Australia’s coastal forests. Blackbutt may be found from Eden on the south coast of New South Wales up to southeast Queensland. The kind of wood used for Canberra’s Parliament House flooring is Blackbutt. Anyone who has travelled along the coast of New South Wales will recognise that the Pacific Highway runs right through a rather big and identifiable Blackbutt forest between Coffs Harbour and Taree.

Blackbutt, also known as Eucalyptus pilularis, Coastal Blackbutt, and Pink Blackbutt, is a popular timber for outdoor and interior building applications due to its fast growth and simple regeneration. It is often used for external and structural applications and in the production of plywood. Its trees may grow 40m to 50m tall and are recognised for their wildfire resilience. This resistance gave rise to the tree’s popular name, Blackbutt. After a blaze, the buttress – or butt – of the tree is blackened, giving rise to the name Blackbutt.

Appearance

Plantation Blackbutt is often uniform in colour, grain, and texture. Wild Blackbutt, on the other hand, can be more variable. The heartwood of Blackbutt varies from golden yellow to pale brown, with a little pink tint. The sapwood is much lighter in colour and may occasionally show tiny gum veins. Blackbutt is a solid hardwood that weighs around 900kg per cubic metre. This density gives it natural termite resistance. Blackbutt has a straight grain that occasionally interlocks. This makes it a popular choice for joinery and flooring, and it has a distinct appearance from most other hardwoods.

Workability

If not oiled or stained, Blackbutt can be slightly prone to surface checking, occasionally posing problems when painting. Blackbutt, on the other hand, receives polish and stains well. Therefore, this will not be a concern for decking applications. It machines nicely and moves very little. Mature wood contains a high amount of extractives, which can create issues with some adhesives and stains on painted surfaces after exposure to the elements. These concerns may be avoided in decking projects by using stainless screws to secure the boards.

Common Applications

Because of its strength and longevity, Blackbutt is a popular choice for various structural, external, and interior applications. Decking, flooring, framing, cladding, joinery, and furniture are all common applications. Because of its great fire resistance, it is a popular option in bushfire zones. It may be used for posts and poles after being treated, and it is also a common paper-making material. It may also be utilised in infrastructure and engineering projects such as constructing railway sleepers and bridges.

Why Should You Choose Blackbutt for Your Decking Project

Strength and durability are two of the most appealing characteristics of Blackbutt lumber – and they are crucial when it comes to decking. Choosing Blackbutt ensures that your deck will last and withstand the weather.

Blackbutt is also visually appealing, ranging from golden yellow to pale brown. It has a consistent texture and straight (occasionally interlocking) grain, making it an excellent choice for decking and flooring. It is also stain and grease-resistant.

Blackbutt is an excellent alternative for decking and building if you reside in a bushfire-prone location. It was, in fact, one of seven hardwood timber species certified by Victoria’s Building Commission for home building in bushfire regions.

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